Whitecaps FC mourn the passing of Bill Mitchell

January 5, 201112:00 AM PST

Vancouver Whitecaps FC were saddened to hear of the passing of Bill Mitchell at the age of 80. Mitchell was a committed player, coach, and volunteer in local soccer.

"Bill was a committed member of Grandview Legion Football Club, which was formed in 1957," said Whitecaps FC president Bob Lenarduzzi. "So many players that played professionally and for the Canadian national team over the years started their careers at Grandview Legion."

Among those to have played for Grandview Legion were Whitecaps FC alumni Sam, Bobby, and Dan Lenarduzzi. Mitchell's son in former Whitecaps FC and Canadian international striker Dale is also a graduate of the club.

Following his retirement in 1984, Mitchell and friend Ernie Griffin helped resurrect Grandview Legion from near extinction to a club that currently runs 35 teams and serves 450 young players in East Vancouver.

"As a fellow East Vancouverite and Grandview Legion alumni, I appreciate Bill and Ernie giving their time and effort to re-establishing a once thriving local club that, at one stage, was on the verge of folding," said Lenarduzzi. "Bill's sudden passing has been deeply felt amongst all Grandview Legion alumni and the soccer community on the Lower Mainland and in the province of British Columbia. My condolences go out to his family and friends at this sad time."

A celebration of Mitchell's life will be held at 1 p.m. PT on Friday, January 7, at Eagle Creek at Burnaby Mountain Golf Course - 7600, Halifax Street, Burnaby, BC. In lieu of flowers, please donate to the charity of your choice.